After my blog of last week, I’ve decided to do another post on BJJ, and this time about the value of the sport and what to consider if you are a female and considering BJJ as a sport.
Starting a new sport can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when it involves getting up close and personal with people in a way that's pretty far from your typical fitness class. If you're considering trying out Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) as a woman, you're already on a great path towards gaining confidence, learning self-defence, and getting fit in a fun and engaging way. Let’s dive into what you should consider when starting, and why BJJ might just be the perfect fit for you!
Self-Defence One of the most appealing aspects of BJJ is its focus on self-defence. Unlike some martial arts that rely heavily on size or strength, BJJ teaches you how to use leverage, technique, and body mechanics to control and subdue an opponent, no matter their size. Even with just a basic understanding of BJJ, you can handle yourself against a larger, stronger attacker. It's empowering to know that you can protect yourself, and this makes BJJ a particularly useful skill for women.
Reality-Based Training A huge advantage of BJJ is that you can train with high intensity and resistance without risking injury through striking. Sparring, or "rolling," is a core part of training, allowing you to practice real scenarios safely. This approach eliminates the false sense of security you might get from techniques that haven’t been pressure-tested. In BJJ, you learn what works by experiencing it firsthand in a controlled environment.
Mental Focus BJJ isn’t just about physical strength—it's a mental game. You’ll develop strong mental awareness and learn how to stay calm in tough situations. Most of us aren’t used to being pinned down or pressured by someone else's weight. BJJ helps you build comfort in uncomfortable positions, making it easier to maintain clarity when you might otherwise panic. Over time, you’ll notice your mental toughness growing alongside your physical skills.
Boosted Self-ConfidenceThere's nothing quite like mastering a challenging technique or surviving a tough roll with a training partner. The progress you make on the mats translates to life off the mats. Overcoming obstacles, pushing through tough situations, and seeing your growth over time will build your self-confidence. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve—and this newfound confidence doesn’t stay at the gym; it follows you into everyday life.
Fitness and Health If the gym has never quite clicked for you, BJJ might be a game-changer. An hour of training can burn a serious amount of calories (up to 900 calories in one class!), and the best part is, it doesn’t feel like a chore. BJJ workouts are intense and engaging; they challenge you to push your limits while keeping things fun. As you focus on learning new techniques, you’ll also improve your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. And let's face it—who needs a treadmill when you can grapple your way to better health?
What to Consider When Choosing a BJJ Gym
Beginner-Friendly Environment Look for a gym that welcomes beginners. Many gyms offer classes specifically for newbies, often labelled as "Beginner BJJ," "Intro to BJJ," or "BJJ 101." These classes are designed to ease you in and build your foundation. Some gyms might even require beginners to take a series of introductory classes before jumping into the main classes. If you're just starting, having this step-by-step support can make all the difference.
Women’s Presence in the Gym It's always a good sign if there are other women in the gym, or even better, female instructors. A gym with a healthy mix of men and women often has a more welcoming culture. If the gym has a women-only class or female-led sessions, even better! These spaces can provide a comfortable environment to build your skills before transitioning to mixed classes.
Cost and Contracts BJJ isn’t the cheapest sport, so know your budget before you commit. Look for places that offer free trial classes or a drop-in week to see if the atmosphere suits you. Avoid signing long-term contracts right away—opt for month-to-month memberships until you’re sure it’s the right fit.
Uniform Requirements Some gyms require branded uniforms (Gis), while others are more laid-back and let you wear any style you like. It’s worth asking if the gym provides a uniform with your sign-up or if you can wear your own. You don’t need the fanciest gear to get started—a basic Gi is all you need.
Schedule and Flexibility A gym’s schedule should fit your lifestyle. Check if they have classes that suit your availability—whether it’s evening, early morning, or weekend sessions. Some gyms also offer open mat times, where you can practice freely or ask for help. Having access to a flexible schedule can make it easier to stick to regular training, even if you have a busy life.
Final Thoughts: Just Start!
It’s normal to feel a bit intimidated about trying BJJ for the first time, especially if you’re worried about not being “in shape” or if you’re nervous about sparring. But remember, everyone starts as a beginner. The BJJ community is generally welcoming and supportive, with people excited to help you learn. Whether you’re interested in BJJ for self-defence, fitness, confidence, or just plain fun, take that first step and give it a try—you won’t regret it!
So grab your Gi, take a deep breath, and step onto the mats. BJJ might just become your favourite new adventure.
You got this!
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